How does the minimum wage affect social assistance rates?
Current social assistance rates in Ontario are nowhere near what people need to cover basic necessities such as food, rent, utilities, clothing and transportation. The minimum wage effectively acts as a “ceiling” for social assistance rates – provincial governments stubbornly refuse to set benefit levels higher than the minimum wage. An inadequate minimum wage means inadequate social assistance rates. 9. What should the Province do? In Ontario, a person working 35 hours per weeks would need to make $10/hour to come close to the poverty line. While this is not an adequate wage, raising the minimum wage to $10/hour would be an important first step toward ensuring the right of all workers to an adequate standard of living. 10. What can you do? Call or write Brad Clark, Minister of Labour (416-326-7600) and tell him to immediately increase the minimum wage to $10/hour. You should also call your local MPP. To find his/her number, call Queen’s Park at 416-326-1234 or 1-800-267-8097. Source:
